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19 essays
Bamidbarתשפ״ו
Camping Out: The Spiritual Magnitude of the Degalim
The essay explores the spiritual significance of the Degalim (banners/flags) under which the tribes of Israel encamped in the desert. It argues that these arrangements were not merely organizational but signified Israel's status as the 'Tzivot Hashem' (G-d's army) on earth, a designation that allows humans to potentially exceed the spiritual level of angels through adherence to G-d's commandments.
Medrash
Vayishlachתשפ״ו
Constant Stream
The essay explores the significance of Yaakov Avinu's constant libations (nesachim) during his time in Bais El. Drawing on the concept of 'Ha'avos hen hen ha'merkava,' it explains that Yaakov sought to maintain a seamless, constant connection to Hashem to ward off the negative influence of Esav. By engaging in an avodah (service) unique only to the Jewish people (nesachim) with total consistency, Yaakov established a spiritual barrier that secured the future of his progeny and their connection to the Land of Israel.
Medrash
Nasoתשפ״ו
Sunday Everyday
The essay explores why the inauguration of the Mishkan occurring on a Sunday (Yom Rishon) is significant. By connecting the 'ten crowns' of that day to the creation of light on the first day of the world, it posits that fleeting spiritual moments—like the hidden light of creation or the presence of the Shechinah—leave a permanent impression that allows humanity to reconnect with holiness even when it is not overtly present.
Medrash
Titzavehתשפ״ד
Burning Desire
This essay explores Tehillim 66, discussing its themes of redemption and the importance of praising Hashem, especially in times of exile and hope for the future.
Tehillim
Vayakelתשפ״ג
Stay Close
This essay explores the themes of judgment and connection to God as expressed in Tehillim 50, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a relationship with Hashem through Korbanos.
Tehillim
Good Old Days
The essay explores the significance of Shabbos Hagadol and its Haftorah from Malachai, emphasizing the promise of returning to a time of spiritual closeness and acceptance of Korbanos.
Haftorah
Titzavehתשפ״ב
Lion’s Share
This Haftorah discusses Yechezkel's vision of the Mizbeach in the future Temple, emphasizing the significance of its construction and the symbolism of the term 'Ariel' as a representation of divine fire.
Haftorah
Vayikraתש״פ
Our Right
The Haftorah from Yeshayahu emphasizes the unique status of Am Yisroel and their connection to Korbanos, highlighting their role in serving Hashem despite their failings.
Haftorah
VayakelPekudeiParshas HaChodeshתש״פ
Parshas HaChodesh
Parshas HaChodesh emphasizes the significance of Rosh Chodesh Nissan, marking it as a special day for the Chanukas HaMizbeach and the beginning of Avodah, highlighting our unique ability to project Kedusha.
Parsha
Yisroתש״פ
Yisro Incensed
The Haftorah for Parshas Yisro discusses Yeshayahu's mission to King Achaz, emphasizing the importance of a connection to Torah for achieving spiritual purity.
Haftorah
Re'ehתשע״ט
Acting Class
The essay discusses the significance of the Haftorah for Parshas Re’eh, emphasizing the themes of comfort and mourning for Yerushalayim, and the importance of external expressions of grief.
Haftorah
Tzavתשע״ח
All Fired Up
This essay explores the significance of the eternal fire on the Mizbeach and its connection to the concept of spiritual strengthening through Korbanos.
Parsha
Vayikraתשע״ז
Bigger and Smaller
The essay explores the significance of Korbanos, particularly the Minchas Ani, emphasizing the importance of self-diminishment in spiritual growth and connection to Hashem.
Parsha
Terumahתשע״ז
Lights and Action
Parshas Terumah discusses the construction of the Menorah, emphasizing its complexity and the lessons it teaches about action and divine assistance.
Parsha
Mirror Image
The essay explores the significance of the Kior in the Mishkan, emphasizing its role in promoting Shalom and Kiruv Halevavos among the Jewish people.
Parsha
Korachתשע״ו
Secret Recipe
The essay explores the dual nature of Ketores, its power to heal and its potential danger, emphasizing the importance of intent in its use.
Parsha
Vayikraתשע״ו
Soul Food
This essay explores the significance of the Korban Mincha, emphasizing that even a simple offering from an Ani is valued by Hashem as if it were a greater sacrifice, highlighting the importance of intention and closeness to God.
Parsha
Enough is Enough
This essay discusses the importance of Nedivus Lev in the donations for the Mishkan, emphasizing that only items given with pure intentions can contribute to something everlasting.
Parsha
Vayikraתשע״ה
Our Avodah
The essay explores the significance of Korbonos and their connection to Tefillah, emphasizing that both serve as a means to draw closer to Hashem and inspire Teshuvah.
Parsha